How to bet the Santa Anita California Cup Pick 6

Race 4

ROUSING SERMON (4) finished just behind CHAMPIONS GATE (9) in the I'm Smokin at Del Mar but gets much the better of the draw and has worked smartly for this. CHAMPIONS GATE certainly showed talent at DMR with a big debut win and fine second in the I’m Smokin, where he edged the top pick. He’s bred to this but got stuck with a tough far outside draw.

Race 5

BOREALIS WAY (4) kept to his task nicely in his main-track debut at Del Mar to be second. His run was flattered as the 3rd- and 4th-place finishers both came right back to win. Being by Bertrando he should handle the hill. FULL'S KRIS S. (2) showed talent in his first run at Del Mar on Aug. 27, rallying well.

Race 6

OBSESS (8) got blinkers back and was a superb 2nd after a troubled start. He looks back on track and a sizzling work since (:58.60) says he’s on edge. CONTEMPLATED (5) hasn't run since last Dec. 26 when he was 3rd in the Cal Breeders. That run proves he’s got quality and he’s worked sharply for his return. SUN'S OUT (3) may have turned the corner as he looked super blasting maidens here Sept. 30.

Race 7

HOLLADAY ROAD (5) looks like a comer for Canani and a:46 bullet Oct. 23 says he's ready to go. NORVSKY (2) is a proven commodity on turf and he's done nothing but fire in his last 6 starts. TAMARACK SMARTY (6) finished just behind NORVSKY in a Del Mar stakes and fits well. MEGA HEAT (3) has won three straight, the last on turf and may still be improving.

Race 8

MENSA HEAT (1) should get a great pace to chase and his strong 3rd in the Grade 1 Ancient Title validates him. BOB BLACK JACK (5) hasn't run since Feb. 2010 but he's proven fresh and proven top-class. M ONE RIFLE (9) can be big at times and is working as if this might be one of those times. COST OF FREEDOM (3) may not quite be what he was but still has scary speed.

Race 9

UNZIP ME (12) would be a player against the best turf sprinters in the Breeders' Cup but opted to stay home for this much easier spot. Unless something is wrong she appears the logical linchpin to your ticket.

My wagers

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